Here’s a care guide for Iridescent Sharks (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) in bullet points:
Tank Setup:
- Large Tank: Iridescent sharks can grow quite large, so start with a tank of at least 125 gallons for juveniles and consider upgrading as they grow.
- Adequate Filtration: Strong filtration is essential to maintain water quality, as they produce a lot of waste.
- Substrate: Use sand or fine gravel as substrate to prevent injury to their barbels.
Water Conditions:
- Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 75-82°F (24-28°C).
- pH Level: Keep the pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Water Hardness: Maintain moderate water hardness (5-12 dGH).
- Regular Water Changes: Frequent water changes are essential to keep water parameters stable.
Diet:
- Omnivorous: Iridescent sharks are omnivores, so provide a balanced diet.
- High-Quality Pellets: Offer high-quality sinking pellets designed for large catfish.
- Supplementary Foods: Include live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia for variety.
- Avoid Overfeeding: Don’t overfeed, as they are prone to obesity.
Tank Mates:
- Compatibility: Iridescent sharks are social but can be aggressive towards their own kind when crowded. Best kept in groups of three or more.
- Choose Companions Carefully: Opt for peaceful tankmates like larger, non-aggressive species, but avoid aggressive or territorial fish.
Behavior and Activity:
- Nocturnal: Iridescent sharks are primarily active during the night, so provide hiding spots during the day.
- Swimmers: They are strong swimmers and need ample swimming space in the tank.
Tank Decor:
- Hiding Places: Provide caves, PVC pipes, or driftwood for them to hide in during the day.
- Minimal Plants: Use hardy, low-light plants if you want to include live plants, but they may uproot them.
Health and Disease:
- Quarantine New Fish: Quarantine new additions to the tank to prevent disease outbreaks.
- Watch for Signs: Monitor for signs of stress or disease, such as loss of appetite, rapid breathing, or unusual behavior.
Breeding (Difficult):
- Breeding Difficulty: Breeding Iridescent sharks in captivity is challenging due to their large size and specific breeding requirements.
- Separate Spawning Tank: You’ll need a separate tank with optimal conditions to induce breeding behavior.
Handling and Safety:
- Beware of Barbs: Iridescent sharks have sharp barbels, so be cautious when handling them to avoid injury.
Legal Considerations:
- Check Local Regulations: Ensure you comply with local and international regulations regarding the keeping of Iridescent sharks, as they are a protected species in some areas.
Remember that Iridescent sharks can grow rapidly, and they require proper care and a spacious tank to thrive. It’s crucial to be committed to meeting their needs throughout their lifespan, which can extend for several years when well cared for.
